Published by Daniel Lewis (Editor and Writer) on January 16, 2007 in The Flame

The Flame/Holy Ghost Preparatory School

The JVA Ice Hockey team has demonstrated its superiority throughout this season, especially in the past few weeks.

It currently stands in second place in the league, with Neshaminy sitting on top, a team that the Firebirds are 1-1 against. However, HGP and Neshaminy still face-off one more time before the end of the season.

While Neshaminy stands in their way, there remains strong conviction in the players and the coaches.

“We have a great shot at winning the title this year,” says Andrew Joachim ‘09.

Joachim is just one of the players who has persevered through the two losses this season, for the team stands at 7-2-1, as of the start of the New Year. What the record does not show, though, is their triumph in a Christmas Tournament at West Chester.

The team has improved by leaps and bounds. The success and resolve can be attributed to the coaches, Joe Van Osten, Jr. ‘95, Robert Posey ‘00, and Tim O’ Connor.

They have assisted in establishing a well-balanced team that has the offensive firepower to take over the game and a defense that can protect the goal. They have also put together a team in which the players know one another’s strengths and weaknesses, which is not a surprise considering that many teammates are friends.

It is evident that hockey is deeply woven into the fabric of Holy Ghost Prep. The JVA team is clearly living up to the expectations set by many, and there is a great sense of appreciation for what has transpired so far this season.

Nevertheless, the players all realize how much work is necessary to accomplish the things they know are within their grasp. They are aware that they are not flawless, and that they still have some aspects on which they can improve. They have their eyes on the next few games, with a strong adrenaline coursing through their bodies and minds.

The general feeling is this: this team is a pretty good one that can go very far if they keep playing hard and paying attention to details.